Alex Iwobi backs Fulham to build on first Premier League win

Alex Iwobi says Fulham can use their 1-0 victory over Hull City as a platform for a stronger Premier League campaign after finally ending their winless start to the season.

The Nigeria international scored the only goal in the 33rd minute at Craven Cottage on Saturday, giving Fulham their first league victory of the campaign. The result brought an end to a run of four defeats and two draws.

Fulham’s three points moved them on to five for the season and offered timely relief to manager Alvaro Arbeloa, who had faced scrutiny after the club’s disappointing opening results.

Speaking to Fulham TV after the match, Iwobi said the team had deserved a better return from some of their earlier performances.

“The win was a long time coming,” he said.

Iwobi’s goal proved decisive in a match where Fulham created a number of chances, particularly before half-time. They recorded 10 shots in the opening 45 minutes but were unable to add to their advantage.

The midfielder acknowledged that Fulham needed to be more effective in front of goal, while also arguing that regularly creating opportunities should eventually lead to an improvement in their scoring record.

His focus, however, was not limited to the team’s attacking play. Iwobi also underlined the importance of maintaining the defensive organisation that helped Fulham protect their lead and claim a clean sheet.

That defensive effort was tested late on after Ryan Sessegnon was sent off in stoppage time. Fulham were forced to see out the closing stages with 10 players, but held on to secure a victory that had appeared increasingly important after their poor beginning to the campaign.

Iwobi believes that defensive solidity will be central to any attempt to turn Saturday’s result into a sustained improvement. Fulham will need to combine that resilience with greater accuracy if they are to make the most of the chances they continue to create.

One victory does not by itself guarantee that Fulham’s fortunes have changed, but the win has given the side renewed confidence and lifted them closer to the teams above them in the Premier League standings.

Their next opportunity to build on the result comes on Saturday, when Fulham face Coventry City in their next league fixture.